Pornography

Abstract

Child pornography involves the coercion or children to perform or simulate sexual acts including genital exhibition, masturbation, oral, anal, or genital sex, sadomasochism, or bestiality, while the offender documents their sexual activity. Pornography differs from other forms of CSEC in that the victim does not always come into direct contact with the consumer. Nevertheless, victims of child pornography face considerable victimization by the hands-on abuse of pornography producers and the images of their abuse, documented in infamy. Unfortunately, child pornography is a rapidly growing industry grossing approximately $20 billion. Recent changes in technology and the availability of high-tech computers, Webcams, and software enables the rapid production and distribution of child pornography. For example, from 1996 to 2006, there was more than a 2000 % increase in cases of American child pornography investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigations (FBI). More information is known about the consumers of child pornography; however, an offender that produces child pornography may do so by exploiting a child they have groomed for future abuse. For example, a father, pimp, or trafficker might take photos or videos of youth they are victimizing either by hands-on abuse or trafficking. Some offenders sell the images for monetary gain, while others trade the images for more child pornography. Child pornographers and consumers can include teachers, professors, celebrities, judges, dentists, police officers, coaches, neighbors, religious leaders, or parents. They tend to be white males, in their 30’s, and heavy Internet users. Further, they are more likely to have a history of mental health issues yet have lower rates of substance abuse than other sexual offenders. Children who are forced into pornography domestically and often are victims in their own home. Manipulation, coercion, drug dependency, threats, and physical abuse are all mechanisms through which children remain silent about engaging in pornography.